Future-proofing Point Richards’ flora and fauna

A 20-YEAR draft management plan for one of the largest areas of remnant native bushland on the Bellarine Peninsula has been released to the public for feedback.

It marks the first time a holistic plan has been developed to maintain Point Richards Flora and Fauna Reserve and comes as concerns grow for the long-term resilience of its ecosystems, as the impact of threats such as climate change, pest animals and environmental weeds increase.

The coastal reserve, which is situated in Portarlington to the west of the main street and spans 62 hectares, is considered a significant conservation asset for the region, and provides critical habitat for native flora and fauna, including migratory birds and the threatened growling grass frog.

The draft plan has been developed by land manager Bellarine Bayside in partnership with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, the City of Greater Geelong and the broader community, and outlines a long-term vision for the reserve’s future, as well as strategies to achieve its primary objectives.

These objectives are:

• Support connections to culture and Country
• Maintain the integrity of the reserve’s wetlands
• Improve habitat quality and biodiversity, and manage existing and emerging threats to the reserve, including invasive plants and inappropriate fire regimes
• Reduce the impacts from pest animals, such as rabbits and foxes, to protect native species and ecosystems, and
• Enhance the visitor experience through improve walking tracks, access points, interpretative signage and visitor facilities, while strengthening community involvement through volunteer programs and environmental education.

Bellarine Bayside chief executive Scott Crabtree said developing a management plan for the Point Richards Flora and Fauna Reserve has been a key goal for the organisation.

“We are pleased to release the draft plan outlining clear directions for the management of the reserve in the next 20 years, finding a balance between managing cultural, environmental and visitor values,” he said.

“Point Richards Flora and Fauna Reserve is a unique place on the Bellarine and the management plan will ensure the habitat quality of the reserve is protected so that everyone in the community can visit and connect to nature in generations to come.”

To provide feedback on the draft plan before 5pm on June 27, head to conversations.bellarinebayside.com.au/point-richards-flora-and-fauna-reserve-management-plan